If you're not aware, a cat exposing their belly to you is a sign of trust, as it is their most vulnerable area. Touching their belly when they do that betrays that trust, which is why they attack you. It is not an invitation to touch their belly.

[–] MyNameIsRichard@lemmy.ml 10 points 2 weeks ago* (last edited 2 weeks ago) (1 children)

Unless it is an invitation. Four of mine love and ask for belly rubs, the fifth will seriously bite you. A&E seriously!

[–] Snowpix@lemmy.ca 2 points 2 weeks ago (1 children)

It depends on the cat, but most of the time it isn't.

[–] MyNameIsRichard@lemmy.ml 9 points 2 weeks ago* (last edited 2 weeks ago)

Yeah, it depends on the cat but in my experience 60% of cats love it, 20% really love it, and 20% will put you in hospital.

Scientists: "Your cohort is small and your study is flawed!"

[–] wise_pancake@lemmy.ca 4 points 2 weeks ago

My cat is so confusing.

He lets my wife rub his belly and loves it, but he doesn’t let me. He then follows me around everywhere all day every day, and he always wants to sleep near me.

I play with him a lot, so I think sometimes it’s a “come play with me” and sometimes he thinks I’m going to play with him if I pet his belly, so he gets bitey.